Discover the best horror and creepy anime on Netflix with shows like Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead and Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales.
A blend of rich storytelling and vivid, often haunting visuals, horror anime doesn’t merely scare; it immerses viewers in a world of unspeakable terror, tugging at their deepest fears.
This genre delves deep, often showing graphic scenes and emotional roller-coasters designed to challenge your psyche.
- The Appeal: Why do so many crave this adrenaline rush? For many, it’s the lure of the unknown, the thrill of a scare, and the satisfaction of emerging ‘unscathed’ on the other side.
- Navigating the Abyss: With many options available, pinpointing the crème de la crème of horror anime might feel overwhelming.
Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales of the Macabre
OK, I just started watching this one; here’s what we have so far.
The series features some truly memorable tales, with “The Hanging Balloons” standing out as a personal favorite of mine. I haven’t delved into the manga, so my perspective is solely based on the adaptation of the series.
- The anime comprises short episodes.
- Some episodes feature a single extended story.
- Others split the time between two shorter tales.
- Viewers can enjoy episodes in any sequence, given their independent nature.
- Faithfulness stands out in this adaptation:
- It mirrors not only the tales but also the distinctive style and art of the comics.
- The dream-like pacing of Ito’s work translates seamlessly to the screen, preserving its unique narrative flow.
Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead
The anime adaptation of “Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead” has recently been placed on an indefinite break, with no specified date for resumption.
However, you should consider watching the current 9 episodes on Netflix.
Bug Films brilliantly crafts “Zom 100,” a creepy horror anime, by harnessing the power of simplicity in an apocalyptic slice-of-life setting.
Key Points:
- The core allure of the anime is its straightforward approach.
- Despite the unusual blend of apocalypse and daily life, the concept works seamlessly.
- “You only live once” stands as the singular theme of “Zom 100.”
- The narrative remains unwavering in its adherence to this mantra.
- A unique spin on the Zombie apocalypse distinguishes the anime from others.
- The protagonist’s introduction is meticulously designed to align with the story’s essence.
- A glimpse of the first episode will encapsulate the anime’s essence.
High-Rise Invasion
Anime fans often have polarized views: they either passionately love a show or utterly reject its core. I can empathize with both perspectives regarding this one.
This series offers a good dose of entertainment set against an unconventional, even wild, backdrop. For the most part, its rhythm keeps the audience engaged.
- Perfect for a swift viewing.
- No need to skip episodes; it constantly holds attention.
- Every character is engaging.
- Pacing is brisk, but it works.
- Highly recommend for a quick, straightforward watch.
- Eagerly hoping for a subsequent season.
Trese
In Manila, where mythical creatures from Philippine folklore hide among humans, Alexandra Trese confronts a criminal underworld teeming with malicious supernatural entities.
- The animation stands out stunningly.
- Animators’ dedication shines through every frame.
- Clearly, there was a significant budget behind it.
- Ranks among the top visually striking adult animations I’ve recently encountered.
- “Trese” sets a benchmark, highlighting the need for more shows of its caliber.
Darwin’s Game
High school student Kaname unknowingly triggers a mysterious mobile app, thrusting him into a game where players with extraordinary powers compete against one another.
- This creepy anime masterfully blends action and mystery.
- Its conclusion stands out as a work of art.
- Engaging throughout, boredom never sets in.
- The impeccable script leaves me eager for season 2.
- Don’t let this anime slip under your radar.
- If you’re seeking a solid action series, this one should top your list.
Castlevania
When Netflix first released Castlevania, I didn’t expect it to evolve into such a remarkable series. While Season 2 blew me away, Season 3 might have surpassed it in excellence.
With just four episodes, Castlevania serves as a prelude to the main show. The upcoming Season 2 boasts eight episodes, drawing inspiration from Castlevania 3. While Adi Shankar’s makeup choices might raise eyebrows, no one can question his outstanding work ethic.
- “Castlevania” showcases exceptional writing, amplifying its stature as a creepy horror theme anime.
- Warren Ellis excels as a writer; his contributions to the 2011 X-Men animated series stand testament.
- The animation is breathtakingly beautiful.
- Western takes on anime-inspired styles have always intrigued me.
- Sam Deats’ direction is a revelation. How did they discover such talent?
- Surprisingly, this is Deats’ directorial debut, a fact that’s hard to grasp.
- The passion and respect poured into this project are palpable.
Mononoke
- A standout in the realm of freaky animes.
- The animation and art style strike a balance between beautiful and eerie.
- Its paper-texture overlay evokes the essence of age-old ghost tales.
- Deep symbolism and multiple layers sometimes complicate the narrative.
- Certain story arcs might leave viewers puzzled, questioning their understanding.
- Despite the ambiguity, it’s compelling enough for multiple viewings.
Devilman Crybaby
While “Devilman Crybaby” might not resonate with everyone, it’s a distinctive action anime that pairs its striking animation with a compelling narrative.
- Devilman Crybaby stands out as a unique entry in the creepy horror anime with demons genre.
- Its art style and soundtrack captivate instantly.
- The series boasts a distinctiveness in nearly all its aspects.
- However, 10 episodes, each roughly 20 minutes, seem inadequate for its expansive storyline.
- Its ambition is commendable, but the execution seems rushed.
- A longer runtime might have offered a more polished narrative experience.
Kabaneri!
Yes, yes another post-apocalyptic setting sprinkled with steampunk-infused action, centering around a hero possessing a unique skill. Yet, that’s where the commonalities halt.
The series paints a desolate yet captivating world, teetering precariously on the brink. As humanity endeavors to reclaim its footing, its inherent self-destruction rears its head, a recurring motif in our tales.
- “Kabaneri” evokes strong vibes of “Attack of the Titans,” reminiscent of the anime horror romance genre.
- The storyline juxtaposes humans with kabanehs, drawing parallels to the “Humans vs. Titans” narrative.
- Kabanes turn monstrous after a deadly virus infection, whereas Kabaneris blend kabane powers with human aesthetics.
- Familiar city walls return, but with an intriguing twist: a massive train becomes central to the plot.
- A fierce young girl takes center stage, leaving a trail of devastation.
B: The Beginning
In the technologically advanced island nation of Cremona, action and crime surge. At the epicenter of this turmoil stands “Killer B,” a notorious serial killer destabilizing the city. Koku, our central figure, crosses paths with Keith, the Royal Investigation Service’s legendary detective, and a shadowy crime syndicate, all pursuing their own goals.
- This anime is a compelling watch, especially for those into “creepy weird anime.”
- Noticeable pauses and dramatic silences punctuate the crime narrative.
- Characters boast deep, intricate development, though the pacing feels extended.
- The approach to encrypted clues comes across as naive.
- Given its broad audience, who are mostly regular viewers and not math enthusiasts, some details seem unnecessarily emphasized.
Kakegurui
- This show genuinely caters to a niche audience.
- Elements like characters, settings, and challenges border on the bizarre and can be deeply unsettling.
- Season one felt riddled with inconsistencies and seemed lazily written to me.
- Season two, however, offered more character depth and a tighter storyline.
- A standout, enjoyable character appears in the second season, which I felt the first season missed. (I acknowledge this view might be contrary to popular opinion.)
Death Note
Of course, this is on the list; the anime is fantastic; however, I didn’t care for the live-action Netflix did. I still recommend it, though! For something to watch.
The Anime, for sure!
- “Death Note” takes you on an unpredictable journey.
- The animation and storyline are nothing short of brilliant.
- A mysterious notebook, originating from another realm, lands on Earth, courtesy of a death god.
- If you write someone’s name in it, they perish within 40 seconds.
- A young man aims to craft a crime-free world using the book.
- The plot keeps you on edge with its unexpected twists and suspense.
- More than just entertainment, this anime delves deep into themes of action, power, intelligence, romance, and morality.
- Two central characters in the series become pivotal in teaching valuable life lessons.